The fat burning exercises above will help you burn fat and calories fast. They are your short term answer to burning fat. They are more efficient at this than, for example, long runs.

But keeping excess fat off, is a life long process. So you have to consider your long term goals, which may change with age and your life circumstances.

For the long term, your number 1 priority has to be with exercise you enjoy. It goes without saying that you also continue your healthy diet.

You may already have found that whole body circuits and intervals are perfect for your lifestyle, and you enjoy doing them. They’re quick to do and can be varied loads. Both huge positives for busy lives.

But they’re not long term solutions for everyone. You may enjoy other activities. And let’s face facts, you may not burn all your fat in 4 weeks.

The most stubborn fat (usually around the thighs and bum for women, chest for men, stomach and love handles for both) will take longer to shift.

Don’t be tempted to focus solely on any one area. Your body burns fat as a whole. So the best long term fat burning exercises, are the regular (i.e. 3-5 times a week) activities you enjoy (e.g. pilates, swimming, running, cycling, walking, sports and so on).

My point is that your fitness is more important than fat loss. You may think not, body image is the be all and end all for many people.

But in terms of health, new studies are suggesting that fitness is key, ahead of fat levels (Journal of the American Medical Association).

With being fit, you will burn fat too. After all, that is a part of fitness. Both go hand-in-hand, but enjoying your journey to overall fitness should be your focus.

Final Word
Some exercise is better than none at all. This gets more true as you get older. Vary your exercise every month. Mix it up a little.

Maybe even do 4 weeks of intense fat burning exercises every few months, in-between your normal activities.

In time, even the most stubborn fat will go.

“Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.”
(Walter Elliott, The Spiritual Life)

Be imaginative, take the pressure off and really enjoy your fat burning exercises.